Pia Gonzalez
I learnt a great deal about social justice.
“UTS Law is practical and pragmatic; everything from the subjects to the teaching style is reflective of the real legal world.”
From a young age, Pia Gonzalez was passionate about social justice and the need to empower people with the understanding and knowledge to pursue their rights.
Once she understood that Law could provide this opportunity to do interesting and meaningful work, she was committed to the degree.
In her final year of a combined Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Business program, Pia says it’s UTS Law’s hands-on and supportive approach to legal education that is preparing her for life beyond university.
“Tasks such as writing affidavits and submissions to government go above and beyond the traditional assessment style of essays and closed book exams.”
She says the guidance, encouragement and support from academics like Professor Beth Goldblatt helps students get the most out of local and international internships.
“Subjects such as the Local Legal Internship, or Refugee Law and Practice, enable students to have practical experience in the law in a learning environment that is safe and supportive.”
Outside of coursework, Pia has thrown herself into UTS life; serving as the UTS Law Students Society’s Vice President (Social Justice portfolio) and graduating from the unique Brennan Justice and Leadership Program which she describes as one of the most rewarding aspects of her studies.
“As part of the Brennan program, I volunteered at the largest community legal centre in NSW. I learnt a great deal about social justice and witnessed how solicitors can empower people with their application of law every day.”
Looking back on her time at UTS, Pia says that there’s very little she would change, and encourages anyone interested in studying law to get involved early on and enjoy the journey.
